Residents in Coweta are frustrated that local businesses try to open up downtown, but are forced to shut down after not receiving support from the community.
After opening in august in downtown Coweta, Crafteria did not picture closing their doors six months later.
"This is everything to us, we wanted it more than anything, and it’s really hard because we have customers that are so loyal," said Monica King, owner of Crafteria.
One of their most loyal customers, Krystalyn Foster, says she comes in at least five days a week.
"I feel like I’m going to starve without her, she usually feeds me breakfast and lunch, I hate to say that, but it’s the truth," said Foster.
Foster was excited as a longtime Coweta resident to have a new spot to eat, and a place with a twist.
"We do a craft, Pinterest-inspired craft, with dinner and then we finish up the craft and we keep it at a reasonable price," said King.
Crafteria owner, Monica King, says she did her research before opening in Coweta, and advertised online.
"They didn’t have a coffee house when we first started, they didn’t have any crafting and dinner locations," said King.
Residents who push for local businesses to open are frustrated. They believe some Coweta residents are stuck in their ways to travel to either Broken Arrow or Tulsa, and don’t realize how the whole city could benefit from supporting local businesses.
"Support your own town, and know that hey that person that I’m supporting is making a difference in my community," said foster.
The owners of Crafteria say they’re looking to reopen in a different city. Thursday, December 13th, is their last day at their Coweta location.
The Coweta Chamber of Commerce says they’ve had a few businesses fail over the years after trying to open up downtown.
They suggest advertising beyond Facebook, and speaking with the local Chamber or other small business consultants to see what your area needs.
